Boating and Sailing Near New Providence Island

New Providence provides convenience to maritime travelers; both those who stay in port and those looking to only restock

Because of the close proximity to the state of Florida, the Bahamas is hugely popular amongst yachters, and if you fancy a nice sail of about six to eight hours (with an experienced crew), you can make it from Miami to Nassau and quickly absorb yourself into life on the island. There are, of course, a few steps to take before you can legally gain entry.

First, sailors must head to an official port-of-entry. This isn't a problem for those planning to spend their days on New Providence, since every marina on the island is considered a port-of-entry. As you sail into port, put up your yellow quarantine flag to let customs officials know that you have not yet been cleared. When you dock, each passenger will need to present proof of citizenship, a passport, and another form of photo identification, and will be asked to fill out an immigration card. Then, for a fee of between $150 and $300(USD) depending upon the length of your boat, you'll gain entry to the islands. Included in the fee is your cruising permit, fishing permit, and departure tax. This fee will cover up to four people, and there will be an additional charge for more passengers.

If you have any questions about sailing to the island, you can contact the Port Authority Department in Nassau at 242-322-1596 or 242-326-7354.

Once you've cleared customs, you're free to sail around the island. Check the chart below for marinas around the island where you can pay for a slip to dock your boat at overnight. Most marinas have full amenities including electricity, trash pickup, cable, and internet.

If you want to enjoy some time on the water, without the stress and cost involved with renting a boat you can take an excursion. Want to know more about this option? See the table below to obtain contact information for area providers.

Docking

Considering the option of sailing to New Providence Island using a vessel you own, or a charter from another location? Take a look at the listing below to find information on nearby marinas.

Marinas

Name

Phone

Location

Albany Marina

(242) 676-6020

7.9 mi. (12.8 km) South West of Cable Beach

Bayshore Marina

393-8233

0.3 mi. (0.5 km) West-Southwest of Paradise Island

East Bay Yacht Club

(242) 394-1816

3.2 mi. (5.1 km) North-Northeast of Nassau

Elizabeth on the Bay Marina

(242) 424-7374

Downtown Nassau

Harbour Central Marina

323-2172

671 Bay Street -
Nassau

Harbour Club Marina

(242) 393-0771

3.4 mi. (5.5 km) Northeast of Nassau

Harbour View Marina

394-7085

East Bay Street -
Nassau

Hurricane Hole Marina

(242) 363-3600

Marina Way -
3.5 mi. (5.6 km) North-Northeast of Nassau

Lyford Cay Marina

(242) 362-4131

7.0 mi. (11.3 km) West-Southwest of Cable Beach

Marina Village Docks

(242) 327-6400

0.2 mi. (0.3 km) West of Paradise Island

Marlin Marine

(242) 393-7873

3.3 mi. (5.3 km) Northeast of Nassau

Nassau Yacht Club

(242) 393-5132

3.6 mi. (5.7 km) Northeast of Nassau

Nassau Yacht Haven

(242) 393-8173

3.3 mi. (5.3 km) North-Northeast of Nassau

Old Fort Marina

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Old Fort Bay

Olde Towne Marina

(242) 327-6533

West Bay Street -
Nassau

Paradise Harbour Club Marina

(242) 363-2992

0.8 mi. (1.3 km) East of Paradise Island

Do be aware that while Nassau is without a doubt the best spot in the Bahamas for provisioning, you'll find prices to be marked up 20 to 100 percent. It is also important to note that petty crime around this area is on the rise, so make sure to keep your vessel properly secured and locked up at all times.